Benji Hughes, 'A Love Extreme' (New West)

A shaggily charming Los AngelesviaNorth Carolina troubadour, Hughes mixes the handmade, slightly askew vibe of early Beck with observational gifts that echo Fountains of Wayne. His murmuring voice brings a believable everydude quality to witty tales of landlord troubles ("Neighbor Down the Hall") and great evenings out("I Went With Some Friends to See the Flaming Lips"), but above all he's a love junkie.Between the peppy leering pop of "Tight Tee Shirt" and the sweet piano ballad "So Much Better," Hughes eloquently celebrates the heart's myriad desires.